The Region
With year-round tropical temperatures, vibrant coral reefs, and over 700 islands to explore, the Caribbean is a sailor’s paradise. From the calm, island-hopping charm of the Virgin Islands to the cultural richness of the Leewards, the lush adventure of the Windwards, and the reef-filled waters of Belize, each cruising area offers its own unique rhythm and rewards.
The Virgin Islands
The Virgin Islands offer three distinct cruising areas. The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are the most popular, with over 60 islands, calm waters, white sand beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. The U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) feature more open-water sailing, lively beach bars, and excellent marine parks. The Spanish Virgin Islands (SVI) are the most remote, offering a more adventurous, off-the-beaten-path experience with minimal infrastructure.
The Leeward Islands
The Leeward Islands offer varied cruising, with St. Martin, St. Barts, and Anguilla featuring easy island-hops, upscale dining, and a mix of cultures. St. Barts is the most glamorous, St. Martin has top provisioning and nightlife, and Anguilla is known for quiet, pristine beaches. Farther south, St. Kitts & Nevis offer relaxed charm, Antigua & Barbuda boast steady trade winds and top beaches, while Montserrat and Guadeloupe add volcanic scenery, lush nature, and excellent diving.
The Windward Islands
The Windward Islands offer more adventurous cruising with longer passages and lush, mountainous landscapes. Martinique blends French flair with great provisioning, while St. Lucia combines dramatic scenery and lively towns. St. Vincent and the Grenadines—home to Bequia, Mustique, and the Tobago Cays, are the region’s cruising highlight, offering vibrant sailing and snorkeling. Farther south, Union Island and Mayreau add rustic charm, and Grenada offers rainforest beauty and well-protected marinas.
Belize
Pacific cruising spans everything from icy fjords to tropical coastlines. Alaska and Canada offer dramatic wilderness and remote, wildlife-rich waters, while the U.S. West Coast combines rugged passages with accessible ports. Further south, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Panama deliver sunny cruising, vibrant marine life, and modern marinas. Patagonia offers challenging expedition-style sailing, while the Galápagos and Antarctica provide highly specialized, wildlife-focused journeys.
